Why Now Is the Right Time for a New Work Bag

While a super-stylish work bag will never be the sole reason you get promoted, it could amp up your office outfit and make your job easier—if it has a few key features. Follow these 10 guidelines for scoring an affordable, perfect carry-all.

1. Think big.

1. Think big.

Your ideal pocketbook is likely larger than you’d expect. “Even if you’re able to travel light, on days you need to throw in extra essentials, you don’t want to look like your bag’s busting at the seams,” says Marshalls style expert Jenn Falik. Find a style that can store your daily must-haves, but isn’tso large that it looks like an overnight bag. Good measurements: a foot wide and 11 inches high.

2. Shop during the right season.

2. Shop during the right season.

The best time to scoop up a posh work bag? In autumn. “Fall generally has the most well-designed bags with beautiful hardware and great details and options,” says celebrity stylist Robert Verdi. “Spring isn’t really about the handbag, and summer is about travel bags.” While you may find a plethora of brightly colored purses in the spring, fall offers a better selection of warmer, more neutral tones, which pairs well with anything you wear year round.